Plymouth, NH – Lee Fairbanks Newton, an accomplished contemporary artist whose creative vision spanned decades, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, at the age of 78.
Born in Plymouth, New Hampshire in June 1947, Lee discovered her profound connection to visual storytelling early in life. She pursued her passion through rigorous formal training at the Museum of Fine Arts, specializing in painting and sculpture. Her time there laid the foundation for a lifetime of bold exploration in form, color, and texture.
Lee’s career blossomed as she established herself within the American contemporary art scene. Her multi-dimensional installations and canvas works earned her recognition in prominent artistic circles. Among her career highlights was her selection for the landmark “Six Sculptors” exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) in Boston, alongside further exhibitions featured at vanguard institutions like MoMA PS1 and the New Museum in New York City. Lee was celebrated for her unique ability to infuse ordinary environments with theatrical and celestial themes, pushing boundaries and challenging viewers to perceive the world from a deeper, more vulnerable perspective.
Beyond her impressive professional accolades, Lee lived a simple life with authenticity and imagination surrounded by her gardens and roses. In addition, she was an accomplished dessert chef and worked many years as a dedicated volunteer at Kitty Rescue and Adoption in Jaffrey.
Lee is survived by her brother-in-law, her niece, and her three children. She was preceded in death by her beloved sister Joan Thibeault.
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